How to identify Red hickory (Carya ovalis)

How to identify Red hickory (Carya ovalis)

Red hickory, also known as Small pignut

Red hickory is distinguished by its formidable stature, reaching heights of up to 80 feet (24 meters) with a trunk averaging 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in diameter. This species boasts a well-developed taproot and a rounded to oval canopy, featuring leaves with a classic hickory serrated margin. The bark is characteristically ridged, providing a textured appearance. Its fruit, a type of nut, is notable for its sweetness and commercial value. These nuts culminate their growth in late summer to fall and are encased in a hard shell.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Red hickory

Height: Reaches up to 80 feet (24 meters), towering above other species.

Bark Texture: Bark transitions from ridged youth to shaggy maturity, distinctive and rugged.

Leaflet Shape: Elliptic to lanceolate-elliptic, with serrated margins and acute tips.

Female Flowers: Short red spikes in groups of 2-3, adding visual interest.

Fruit Husk: Splits into four sections, revealing a whitish nut kernel.

Detailed Traits of Red hickory

Leaf Features

The leaves of red hickory are alternate and compound, typically measuring 12 inches (30 cm) long and 8 inches (20 cm) wide. They generally consist of 7 elliptic to lanceolate-elliptic leaflets, each 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. The leaflets have serrated margins, acute tips, and wedge-shaped bases. They are dark green and shiny on the upper surface, and duller, lighter green underneath. In fall, the leaves turn yellow to yellow-brown.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of red hickory exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism. Male flowers appear as drooping yellow-green catkins, measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long. These catkins create a cascading look. Female flowers present as short red spikes, typically found in groups of 2-3 at the branch tips. The contrasting colors and forms add to the plant's visual interest. Blooming occurs in late spring, offering a subtle yet attractive display essential for identification.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of red hickory is defined by light brown, glabrous twigs adorned with scattered white lenticels. Branches present a light gray, smooth surface, while larger branches exhibit shallow furrows. This stem's texture and coloration, combined with the distinctive pattern of lenticels and furrows, make it readily identifiable. The branching structure isn't overly thick, contributing to a refined, streamlined appearance.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of red hickory features an oval husk, approximately 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in length, which matures in late summer to fall. This husk exhibits a tendency to split into four distinct sections, revealing an underlying shell of considerable thickness. Encased within this tough exterior lies a nut, notable for its whitish hue and rich texture. This part of the fruit is the edible kernel, sought after for both wildlife consumption and human culinary uses.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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